Best Gay Clothing-Optional Resorts in the World

Looking to free yourself from both clothing and heteronormative vacation experiences? Gay naturist resorts offer the perfect opportunity to embrace body freedom in LGBTQ+-affirming environments. From clothing-optional resorts in buzzing cities to rustic gay-owned hotels in far-flung natural settings, these destinations allow you to connect with like-minded travelers while leaving your inhibitions (and tan lines) behind.

This guide highlights the world's top gay naturist destinations across different continents, price points, and vibes – because naturist travel isn't one-size-fits-all.

North America

Island House (Key West, USA)

Island House is a legendary gay resort in Key West with a clothing-optional pool and sundecks. While not a fully naturist property (clothing is required in the restaurant and some public areas), it offers ample space to enjoy the naturist lifestyle in a gay-exclusive environment.

Just steps from Duval Street's vibrant energy, Island House stands as one of America's most celebrated gay resorts. Since its founding in 1976, this men-only establishment has perfected the delicate balance between luxury accommodations and uninhibited adult playground, earning its reputation as a must-visit destination in the LGBTQ+ travel landscape.

The resort features a 24-hour poolside café and bar, gym, and entertainment center. Its location in the heart of Key West means you're just steps away from the island's gay bars and attractions.

Gay Naturists International Gathering (Various Locations, USA)

Annual Event

If you’re seeking a more community-focused experience, Gay Naturists International hosts "The Gathering," an annual week-long event that transforms a conventional summer camp into a gay naturist experience. With hundreds of attendees from around the world, The Gathering is an immersive naturist experience.

Activities range from sports and swimming to workshops and themed parties – all enjoyed in the nude. The event rotates between different camp facilities, primarily in Pennsylvania and Maryland, with rustic cabin accommodations and communal meals.

Best time to visit: The event typically occurs in August (dates are announced on GNI's website each year).

CCBC Resort (Cathedral City, USA)

Just outside Palm Springs, CCBC Resort offers a clothing-optional experience specifically geared toward gay men. With multiple pool areas, a spacious steam room, and extensive play areas, CCBC blends naturism with a more sexually open environment.

The resort's 3.5-acre property includes hotel rooms, cabin facilities, and tent camping options, making it accessible at various price points. Weekend pool parties during high season are also popular.

The heart of CCBC is its pool area, where the desert sun shines nearly 350 days a year. The central swimming pool and adjacent hot tubs serve as social areas, surrounded by loungers and cabanas where guests mingle freely in the clothing-optional environment. Nearby, The Greenhouse restaurant and bar provides cocktails and light bites.

CCBC distinguishes itself with its extensive play areas designed for adult exploration. The resort features an elaborate maze of private and semi-private spaces, including themed play rooms, a video lounge, multiple indoor and outdoor cruising areas, and the famous "Playroom".

Europe

Cinq & Sept (Languedoc, Southern France)

Located in the charming village of Roujan in the Languedoc region of Southern France, Cinq & Sept has established itself as one of Europe's favourite gay guesthouses.

Housed in a beautifully restored 200-year-old village mansion, this property features spacious self-catering suites. The accommodations include well-equipped kitchens, comfortable bedrooms, and contemporary bathrooms. Some gay clothing-optional resorts can be rough and ready, to put it mildly: some look like they were last updated in the 1980s! Cinq & Sept, however, is a stylish guesthouse by any standard.

The heart of the property is undoubtedly its stunning 10m x 6m swimming pool surrounded by fragrant gardens of lavender and jasmine, where guests can sunbathe in a clothing-optional environment. Additional amenities include a warm jacuzzi (particularly welcoming during off-season visits), an outdoor summer lounge, and a convivial bar serving refreshing cocktails and regional wines late into the evening.

What truly distinguishes Cinq & Sept is its social atmosphere. Hosts Alex and Greg create a sense of community through thoughtfully organized events: gourmet dinners under the stars, Monday pool parties, pizza nights, wine tastings, and group excursions like kayaking adventures.

The guesthouse's strategic location places visitors just 25 minutes from some of Southern Europe's finest beaches (including several gay-friendly, clothing-optional options) and near the cultural gems of Languedoc. The picturesque town of Pézenas is just 12 minutes away, while the city of Montpellier is within easy reach. Even the village of Roujan itself surprises with high-quality restaurants, a large supermarket, and essential services.
Beyond regular stays, Cinq & Sept has become renowned for its specialized gay retreats held in spring and autumn. These themed gatherings focus on activities from tantra and yoga to hiking and massage.

Villas Blancas (Gran Canaria, Spain)

On Gran Canaria's southern coast, Villas Blancas has established itself as one of the island's leading gay hotels. The property features a collection of 17 thoughtfully designed one and two-bedroom villas. The stark white exteriors that give the complex its name ("White Villas") contrast beautifully with the landscape of tropical gardens. Each villa has a fully equipped kitchen, living area, and private terrace or garden.

At the heart of Villas Blancas is the clothing-optional swimming pool. Unlike more explicitly sexual environments, Villas Blancas strikes a perfect balance—sensual without being overtly sexual, allowing guests to define their own experience.

The property's location is another selling point. A short 15-minute walk brings you to the famous Yumbo Center, the island's epicenter of gay nightlife featuring dozens of bars, clubs, restaurants, and shops. The magnificent Maspalomas dunes and their legendary gay beach section are just a 20-minute stroll away, while the more intimate Playa del Inglés can be reached in roughly the same time.